Column: Get Active programs roll into new year with continued grant funding

Nearly three years ago, Wood County was awarded a $2.3 million federal grant to implement programs and policies that create better access to healthy foods and increase opportunities for physical activity for all residents. Our successes are a testament to why healthier resident lifestyles make our central Wisconsin community one where people truly want to live, learn, work and play.

With the Get Active grant funding, more than 20 child care centers revised policies to offer the youngest members of our population better nutritional standards and increased time for physical activity. Thanks to the leadership of school districts, our county now also boasts one of the most successful Farm to School programs in the state. In addition, public and private sector worksites established wellness policies that make healthy living more accessible for many workers; farmers markets now serve FoodShare recipients; and community gardens have sprouted throughout all corners of the county. The list of achievements goes on and on.

These accomplishments would not be possible without the countywide partnerships and collaborations of organizations across all sectors. The Get Active team thanks those partners, and especially the members of the Healthy People Wood County and Healthy Lifestyles coalitions, for their participation and hard work.

The work doesn't end now. Wood County was again the fortunate recipient of federal chronic disease grant funding. Through the new Transform WI fund, the county received $320,000 to continue to create better access to healthy foods and increase opportunities for healthy living for all county residents. Funding, however, is only part of the puzzle. As we enter into the new year, programs and policies established through Get Active need continued community support in order to maintain vibrant Wood County communities where healthy living is a reality for everyone.

Join us! Email me at krauter@co.wood.wi.us to learn how you can get involved in this important work.

Kristie Rauter is the Wood County health improvement planner.

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Column: Get Active programs roll into new year with continued grant funding

Nearly three years ago, Wood County was awarded a $2.3 million federal grant to implement programs and policies that create better access to healthy foods and increase opportunities for physical

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